Split Pea Soup with Beef: 5 Steps to Comforting Bliss

There’s just something so wonderfully comforting about a big pot of homemade soup simmering on the stove, don’t you think? Split Pea Soup with beef is one of those dishes that fills your kitchen with warmth and makes your heart sing. The unique blend of earthy split peas, tender beef, and aromatic vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. I love making this soup during those chilly months when the world outside is frosty and cold. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! On a rainy day, after running errands or just coming in from the cold, this hearty soup is the perfect way to chase those blues away. Trust me, the first spoonful will transport you straight to comfort food heaven. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends with the family!

Ingredients List

To make the most delicious Split Pea Soup with beef, gather the following ingredients:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups chopped onion
• 1 cup diced carrot (1/4-inch dice)
• 1 cup diced celery (1/4-inch dice)
• ¼ to 1 teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
• ½ teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper, plus additional to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 meaty beef bone
• 1 large bay leaf (or 2 small)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped (divided)
• 6 cups chicken stock (low sodium)
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup diced beef (1/4-inch dice)
• Buttery Garlic Croutons, for serving

Make sure to measure everything precisely for the best results. Enjoy the process of gathering these ingredients; it’s the first step toward a heartwarming meal that you and your loved ones will cherish!

How to Prepare Split Pea Soup with Beef

Making a hearty Split Pea Soup with beef is a delightful journey that comes together with each step you take. Let’s dive right into it!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Start by melting ¼ cup of unsalted butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. You’ll want to wait until the foaming subsides – this means you’re in business! Once that happens, toss in your 2 cups of chopped onion, 1 cup of diced carrot, and 1 cup of diced celery. Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly-ground black pepper. Cook these aromatic veggies for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften beautifully.

Next, add in 2 cloves of minced garlic and let it cook for just 1 minute. You want to let that garlic aroma waft through your kitchen – it’s heavenly! Now, it’s time to stir in 1 pound of rinsed and sorted dried green split peas. Make sure they’re well combined with the veggies.

Then, introduce the flavor bomb: add in 1 meaty beef bone, 1 large bay leaf (or 2 small), and 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme. Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken stock and 2 cups of water, and give it all a good stir. Bring this lovely mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 60-90 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking and to check how thick the soup is getting – you want it to be comforting and thick!

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add in 1 cup of diced beef. This will give your soup that extra heartiness. Once everything is cooked down and deliciously thick, remove that beef bone and bay leaf. Stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme and season with salt to taste, if needed. Serve hot, and don’t forget those buttery garlic croutons on top!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of this hearty Split Pea Soup with beef, which is roughly 1 cup:

• Calories: 468
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Protein: 29g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 21g
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 1025mg
• Cholesterol: 37mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It’s a wholesome meal packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a comforting dinner!

FAQ Section

I often get questions about making the perfect Split Pea Soup with beef, and I’m here to help! Here are some common inquiries to make your cooking experience smoother:

Common Questions About Split Pea Soup with Beef

Can I use ham instead of beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer the smoky flavor of ham, feel free to substitute the beef with diced ham. Just adjust the salt, as ham can add additional saltiness.

How do I store leftovers?
After enjoying your soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just remember to store it without the croutons to keep them crunchy!

Can I freeze Split Pea Soup with beef?
Yes! This soup freezes wonderfully. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It’ll be good for 3-6 months in the freezer. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready for a comforting bowl!

What can I use if I don’t have chicken stock?
If you don’t have chicken stock handy, vegetable stock or homemade beef broth works just as well. Each will add its unique flavor, so pick what suits your taste!

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
You can definitely make a vegetarian version! Replace the beef and beef bone with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or a bit of smoked paprika for depth. Use vegetable broth as your base, and you’ll still have a delicious, comforting soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty & Satisfying: This Split Pea Soup with beef is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling meal that warms you from the inside out.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious soup bubbling away in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comfort Food Classic: There’s nothing quite like a bowl of this soup on a chilly day; it’s like a warm hug that brings back cozy memories.
• Versatile & Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your tastes, whether that’s swapping in ham or adding your favorite veggies.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or a family gathering.

Tips for Success

To make your Split Pea Soup with beef truly shine, here are some pro tips that I swear by:

• Seasoning is Key: Always taste your soup before serving. The saltiness can vary based on the beef and stock you use, so adjust accordingly. Don’t add too much salt initially; it’s easier to add than to take away!
• Check Your Split Peas: Make sure your dried green split peas are fresh. Old peas can take longer to cook and may not break down properly, leaving you with a less-than-desirable texture.
• Simmer Slowly: Don’t rush the simmering process! Cooking it low and slow allows the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Consider Adding a Splash of Acid: A tiny squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar just before serving can brighten flavors and lift the soup’s overall taste. Trust me, it makes a difference!
• Garnish Wisely: Top your soup with buttery garlic croutons for that perfect crunch. It adds a delightful texture contrast that takes your soup to the next level!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your delicious Split Pea Soup with beef is a breeze! Once you’ve savored your meal, let the soup cool down to room temperature. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, this soup freezes beautifully! Just pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it’ll be good for 3-6 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of water or stock if it’s thickened too much. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Split Pea Soup with beef, consider pairing it with some delicious sides that enhance the meal experience. A slice of crusty, warm bread or a toasted baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich, hearty soup. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette; the peppery greens provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. For a cozy touch, homemade buttery garlic croutons are a must-have topping! They add a delightful crunch that complements the smoothness of the soup beautifully. Trust me, these pairings will take your comforting meal to the next level!

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